Yorkshire coast to lose visitor facilities as National Trust announces closures

Two of the coast’s most beloved beauty spots are set to lose visitor facilities, it has been announced.

The National Trust are closing their cafe at Ravenscar, near Whitby, and the one based at the Old Coastguard Station in nearby Robin Hood’s Bay.

Staff were informed last week the centres would be closing in the coming days.

A spokesperson for the Trust said: “We have taken the difficult decision to close our cafes at Ravenscar and the Old Coastguard Station following a period of consultation with affected staff.

“Like many hospitality businesses, we have faced significant challenges in recent years. Despite efforts to improve performance, these cafés are no longer viable in the long term. As a charity, we have a responsibility to use our resources effectively so we can continue to deliver our conservation work.

“The cafés at Ravenscar and Old Coastguard Station will cease trading and close to customers on Sunday 6 September.

“As a result, a number of roles have been made redundant. This was not a decision we wanted to make, and our priority is to support affected colleagues through this transition.

"We are grateful for the dedication and professionalism shown by the teams at both venues who have provided a warm welcome and excellent service to visitors over many years.”

“We know this news will be disappointing for staff, local communities and visitors.

“We remain committed to helping people enjoy the Yorkshire coast and will work with colleagues, communities and stakeholders to explore future opportunities for these buildings and how they can best support our ambitions for the North Yorkshire coast.”

Ravenscar is known as “the town that never was,” after plans to develop it into a major seaside resort to rival Scarborough in the Victorian era collapsed.

The Cinder Way walking trail passes through the area, and it is also popular with cyclists.